How to Stay Safe from Digital Arrest Scams in India (2026 Guide)

What is Digital Arrest?

Digital Arrest is a new type of online fraud where cyber criminals pretend to be police officers, CBI, cyber crime officials, or government authorities. They scare people by saying that their Aadhaar card, bank account, mobile number, or social media account is involved in illegal activities.

Victims are often threatened with:

• Immediate arrest

• Court cases

• Account freezing

• Jail time

Scammers usually contact people through phone calls, WhatsApp calls, or video calls and try to create fear so that the victim follows their instructions without thinking.

How Does a Digital Arrest Scam Work?

Digital arrest scams usually follow a fixed pattern:

1. Fake Official Call
   You receive a call claiming to be from police, CBI, customs, or cyber crime department.

2. Fear Creation
   They say your documents are linked to drugs, money laundering, or illegal SIM cards.

3. Video Call Pressure
   Victims are forced to stay on a video call continuously and are told not to talk to anyone.

4. Demand for Money or Details
   Scammers ask for:

   • Money transfer

   • Bank details

   • OTP

   • Aadhaar / PAN details

Once money is sent, the scammer disappears.

Important Truth: Police Never Arrest Digitally

👉 Real police or government officers never:

• Arrest someone over a phone or video call

• Ask for money online to “close a case”

• Demand OTP, passwords, or UPI payments

If someone does this, it is 100% a scam.

How to Protect Yourself from Digital Arrest Scams

1. Do Not Panic

Scammers succeed only because of fear. Stay calm and never act in a hurry.

2. Do Not Share Personal Information

Never share:

• OTP

• Bank details

• Aadhaar / PAN

• Passwords

3. End the Call Immediately

If someone threatens you with arrest on call or video call, disconnect immediately.

4. Verify from Official Sources

Call the local police station or visit official government websites to verify the claim.

5. Talk to Family or Friends

Scammers often tell victims not to talk to anyone. This is a big red flag 🚩.

What to Do If You Receive a Digital Arrest Call?

• Disconnect the call

• Do not send any money

• Take screenshots if possible

• Report the number immediately

How to Report Digital Arrest Fraud in India

If you face or suspect a digital arrest scam:

📞 Cyber Crime Helpline: 1930
🌐 Official Website: cybercrime.gov.in

Early reporting increases the chance of recovering your money.

Common Signs of a Digital Arrest Scam

• Caller pressures you to act fast

• Threatens arrest or jail

• Asks for secrecy

• Requests online payments

• Uses fake uniforms or backgrounds on video calls

Why Digital Arrest Scams Are Increasing in 2026?

• Increased online transactions

• Lack of cyber awareness

• Easy access to personal data

• Trust in authority figures

This is why digital awareness is the strongest protection.

FAQs – Digital Arrest Scam

Q1. Is digital arrest legal in India?

No. There is no such thing as digital arrest in Indian law.

Q2. Can police call for investigation?

Police may call for inquiry, but they will never demand money or arrest digitally.

Q3. What should I do if I already sent money?

Immediately call 1930 and report on cybercrime.gov.in.

Conclusion

Digital arrest scams are designed to create fear and confusion. The best defense is awareness, calm thinking, and quick reporting. Always remember:

No genuine authority will ever arrest or threaten you online.

Stay alert, stay informed, and share this information to protect others too.